Nursing homes
Mr. Gormley: Given the horrific problems in our nursing homes, does the Tánaiste intend to reconsider legislation in respect of tax relief for the owners of nursing homes? It is the Government’s profit before people philosophy that is the root cause of this.
An Ceann Comhairle: Is legislation promised? We cannot have a debate on the matter.
Mr. Gormley: People are cutting corners in nursing homes to make money at the expense of the most vulnerable people in Irish society. The philosophy of the Government has led to this problem.
An Ceann Comhairle: As the Chair has already pointed out this matter was discussed for three hours over the past two nights and it was the subject of Leaders’ Questions. There is no provision for Leaders’ Questions on Thursday. Tánaiste, is legislation promised?
The Tánaiste: No legislation is promised. Yet again, ideology is blinding Deputy Gormley to the reality.
Mr. Boyle: Whose ideology? The Tánaiste is sponsoring bad practice.
Mr. Gormley: Your right-wing ideology is leading to this problem.
The Tánaiste: Let me answer. There is no point in behaving like a fascist.
An Ceann Comhairle: If the Tánaiste addresses his remarks through the Chair it may be easier to control the disorderly Deputies.
The Tánaiste: Legislation is not required because the public and private sectors are putting unprecedented resources into nursing homes. Anything that encourages more money to be invested in nursing homes is a good thing, not a bad thing.
Mr. English: It is taxpayers’ money.
Mr. Gormley: Patients are lying in their own urine.